Jose Mourinho was thought to be interested in Real Madrid striker Alvaro Morata while Romelu Lukaku was on his way back to The Bridge.
However, the Portuguese manager made a U-turn and in a stealth move Lukaku landed at Old Trafford in a deal that could reach £90 million plus add-ons.
Mourinho sold the player but reports claim he liked the Belgium international but that he was yet to reach his potential. After coming close last term for the Toffees, the former Chelsea boss decided it was time to link up with the big guy again.
The real question is can Lukaku be the striker Didier Drogba was for Mourinho at Chelsea? The Champions League winner seems to have a preference for African stars, those linked with the race, or proven attackers. At Porto Mourinho used Benni McCarthy to work wonders while Diego Milito was the man when he did the treble at Inter Milan.At Chelsea, he used the Ivorian striker Drogba and then turned to Diego Costa. Zlatan Ibrahimovic was the attack lead when he moved to United but now it’s Lukaku’s turn.
The Belgian obviously has the usual elements: a big, imposing player that is strong in the air. Even at Real Madrid where Mourinho played Karim Benzema and Gonzalo Higuain, there were reports he wanted to land the physically imposing Hugo Almeida from the German Bundesliga.
Lukaku can also hold the ball, link play and head the ball. His fast reactions, bullying tendencies and quick reaction in the box are more pluses – traits Drogba exploited to the letter.
Lukaku would likely have a winger or support to feed him the ball and his friendship with Paul Pogba should benefit the team. His experience of English football would be vital as well though he has limited Champions League experience. Hopefully, he can impress at United as much as Drogba did for Mourinho at Chelsea.